ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

India's 'Cockroach Party' challenges Modi over youth unemployment

other · 2026-07-21

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), founded in May by Abhijeet Dipke (30), a recent US university graduate, has rapidly become an unexpected political challenge to Narendra Modi's right-wing government. The movement was sparked by outrage over India's Chief Justice comparing unemployed youth to 'parasites' and 'cockroaches' during a Supreme Court hearing. CJP channels the anger of millions of young Indians frustrated with the education system and joblessness. Its rise reflects deep discontent among the country's youth, posing a potential threat to Modi's administration.

Key facts

  • Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founded in May by Abhijeet Dipke, 30
  • Dipke recently completed studies at a US university
  • CJP began as an online joke but grew rapidly
  • Movement fueled by anger over youth unemployment and education system
  • Triggered by India's Chief Justice calling unemployed youth 'parasites' and 'cockroaches'
  • CJP challenges Narendra Modi's right-wing government
  • Millions of dissatisfied young Indians support the movement
  • CJP is described as one of the most unexpected challenges to Modi's government

Entities

Institutions

  • Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)
  • Supreme Court of India

Locations

  • India
  • United States

Sources